Chicago Bulls point guard Lonzo Ball made an emotional return to the court for the first time in 2.5 years, receiving a standing ovation from fans at the United Center during an NBA preseason game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 16, 2024 . After struggling with chronic left knee issues since the 2021-22 season and undergoing three surgeries—including a cartilage transplant in March 2023—Ball played midway through the first quarter and quickly made his mark by hitting a three-pointer.
In 15 minutes of action, Ball scored 10 points on 4-of-6 shooting in Chicago's 125-123 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Reflecting on his comeback, Ball stated, “That’s a positive thing... I didn’t feel it at all. I felt like I was moving great. So now it’s just about building. Just continue to do it night in and night out. Felt a lot better playing, I’ll say that much, Can’t really put into words how it felt to be out there. I’m just blessed. A lot of people helped me get here, not just myself. Just to see the crowd and all the love I get from the city, you can’t replicate that in any type of way. And it’s real. So I appreciate everybody."
His return marked a significant moment in what has been a challenging journey. Ball's last appearance was on January 14, 2022, and he had been sidelined for more than 1,000 days, missing over 200 games. In recognition of his perseverance, his teammates celebrated his comeback by giving him a game ball.
“Nothing but love (from teammates). They've been behind me the whole time. Helped me, kept pushing me and it all came down to today and a lot of people didn’t think this was going to happen. All the support around me was great all night; it was definitely a moment I’ll never forget. I had a goal to get back on the court. I knew it was a long journey, a long process. But it all paid off because this is what I was looking for. I’m just glad it’s here now and I can finally go out and do what I love to do. My game is pretty simple. I know what I can do out there, go out and give good minutes and hopefully contribute to winning," Ball added.
During his first game, Ball seamlessly integrated back into the team, contributing not just in scoring but also in defense, recording a block and a steal.
Coach Billy Donovan praised his performance, saying, “I thought he looked great, I really did. He’s talked about getting back his rhythm and timing. There are a lot of things he does in the game that doesn’t require his knee or body; he uses his brain so much. I thought he moved really, really well. Seeing him defensively, seeing him getting over screens, playing in pick and roll….I thought he did a great job in all those things. We’ll see how he responds, but for me personally it's great just to be able to see him get back on the floor and play as well as he did. He can be a very productive player for the minutes allotted to him.”
The Bulls, who dominated much of the game, saw promising performances from other players as well, with Coby White scoring 23 points and Zach LaVine adding 19. However, Donovan noted the need for better stamina as the season progresses.
As Ball prepares for the closing preseason game against Cleveland, he expressed gratitude for the support he received, saying
"I felt like I was moving great,” Ball said. “So now it’s just about building and continuing to do it night in and night out. Not what I wanted it to be, but it was good enough. I felt pretty good out there. Didn’t feel like I was gassed for fatigued. The 15 minutes I played tonight was a good 15, in my opinion. I’m going to play Friday for sure, so hopefully I can give the same effort.”
